TM Junior Johnson was an impressive winner of the $30,000 Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Cup, defeating a top-caliber field of 11 Arabians. The 4-year-old son of Burning Sand is a full brother to TM Fred Texas, nominated as Horse of the Year as part of the 2012 Darley Awards. TM Junior Johnson won the $30,000 Texas Six Shooter for owner and breeder Todd Moak on February 18. Rider Jose Figueroa controlled the race from the opening bell, crossing the finish line of the seven furlong stake in 1:33.35. Trained by Jerenesto Torrez, TM Junior Johnson has won five of his career starts.
Sent off as the second betting choice, TM Junior Johnson paid $7.60 for the win. Status Symboll was a game runner-up as a 69-1 longshot. Its Far From Over was third and defending champion, Grilla completed the superfecta.
While Grilla’s breeder and owner, Bill Waldron might have been disappointed, he quickly rebounded with a victory by Sanddpiper ($6.60) in the $27,500 HH Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies IFAHR Cup. The 5-year-old gray mare, also a daughter of Burning Sand, won the 2011 Yellow Rose Stakes at Sam Houston and proved that she has an affinity for the Houston oval this evening. The all-female jockey race featured an exciting international roster of riders. Fatma Al Manji was the winning jockey, dueling with early pacesetter TM Super Bird, before drawing off to a two-length victory. Rich Kingha finished third and Lori Anne was fourth.
The 2012 Thoroughbred meet continues through Monday, March 12, with post times set for Friday and Saturday (7 p.m.), Sunday (5 p.m.) and Monday
(1 p.m.). The meet will feature Camel & Ostrich Races on March 10. The park will also host a 27-day Quarter Horse Meet from March 22 – May 19.

Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier racing and entertainment facility, located just 15 minutes from downtown Houston, and offers a variety of attractions including 19 luxury suites overlooking the race track, The Pavilion Centre, and award-winning dining options at the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and the Champion Energy Services Jockey Club. Sam Houston Race Park Platinum Partners include Bud Light and Champion Energy Services. For more information on upcoming shows, events and tickets, please visit www.shrp.com.